The James Madison Institute

Florida’s premier free-market think tank, The James Madison Institute (JMI), was founded in 1987 and is one of the nation’s oldest and largest 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan research and educational organizations. Labeled a “heavy hitter” by Florida Trend, JMI’s work has appeared in every Florida media market, as well as national markets through USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, The Hill, Bloomberg, POLITICO, Newsmax and others.

The Institute’s policy recommendations are rooted in the principles found in the U.S. Constitution and such timeless ideals as limited government, economic freedom, federalism and individual liberty coupled with individual responsibility. With the support of thousands of individuals, foundations and corporations across the state and nation who believe in a free-market approach to policymaking, JMI remains the honest broker on issues that impact lives across Florida. We do not accept government funds or private contributions that influence our research outcomes.

Click here to read our mission and how we provide guidance on public policy issues to thought leaders and citizens across the state and nation.

Why James Madison?

The fourth president of the U.S. and the Father of the Constitution, James Madison, said it himself: “I believe there are more instances of the abridgement of freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments by those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations.”

Silent we are not and silence on matters of public policy in Florida would be an abridgement of our mission. We aim to keep Floridians informed about their government and to advance practical public policy solutions. James Madison, we believe, would have approved and no name could better suit the Institute.